How To: Outlined Placemats

We all have our daily family rituals. In our home, before we have a meal our son places napkins, flatware and cups on the table. It appeals to his sense of order and is something he learned early on. Even the youngest child can learn how to set the table with this great Montessori placemat. Our friend, Jennifer, made the one seen here for us as a gift and it's quite easy to create your own, even if you do not possess strong sewing skills.

You can either buy a plain, flat placemat or the fabric of your choice and sew it into a rectangle about 13" x 10".

Make a light outline using fabric chalk of your toddler's cup, spoon, fork and plate (or whatever you prefer).

Using embroidery thread either whip or chain stitch the outlines.

If you're not the sewing type, a fabric or permanent marker will also work just as well.

That's it!

Keep your toddler's placemat somewhere they can reach it and encourage them to set up their eating space. Soon they'll be pros and will feel proud of their accomplishment.